Mapping Karst Geological Heritage for Conservation Using Multi-Source Remote Sensing

Geological heritage in eastern Bijie encompasses karst caves, sinkhole, isolated peaks, doline, natural bridge, tiankeng, dry valley, peak clusters, peak forests, karst hills, karst canyons, and karst depression—distributed across 13 landscape clusters. Formed atop Cambrian and Lower Triassic marine carbonate rocks, these landscapes owe their distinct geomorphology to unique geological structures and vigorous dissolution processes. To examine their spatial distribution and resource value, this study integrates multi-source remote sensing imagery with field surveys. Through data mining, statistical methods, and spatial analysis, an extraction model was developed that identified 117 geological heritage sites. A systematic analysis of their types, developmental features, and geomorphic evolution is presented, followed by a discussion of tourism potential and corresponding management strategies. The results offer data-driven support and strategic insights to promote ecological stewardship and harmonious economic development in the region.